Cranberry Sauce Recipe
This cozy homemade cranberry sauce is bright, tangy, and perfectly balanced with fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a blend of granulated and brown sugar. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s glossy, flavorful, and pure holiday comfort.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- wooden spoon
- measuring cups and spoons
- stove
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries, rinsed
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- optional spices or vanilla (cinnamon stick, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla, or pecans)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, water, orange zest, orange juice, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
- Place over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 20–30 minutes; the sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Transfer to a jar or container and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
Frozen cranberries work just as well—no thawing needed. The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months; cool completely and leave space for expansion. Add cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg for warmth, or stir in chopped pecans after cooling for texture.
Nutrition
Calories: 101kcalCarbohydrates: 26gSodium: 4mgPotassium: 85mgFiber: 1gSugar: 23gVitamin A: 45IUVitamin C: 11mgCalcium: 13mgIron: 0.2mg